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Is this normal?
I’ve never admitted that I do this to anyone because I felt embarrassed or thought maybe its something that people do sometimes when theyre alone. I bite the skin around my nails and eat it, not to the point where they bleed or are significantly damaged. It is the same with my calloused feet skin. I also eat my finger nails when i bite them and the inside of the skin on my lip. Ive been doing this for a long time i think (i remember the skin around my nails as far back as elementary school) I also used to eat paper and eraser heads occasionally when I was younger (again not to the point where it harmed me) just look for some insight, anything helps!
Unfortunately anything we are used to becomes normal for us. Even for alcoholics they often do not realize how drunk they are because it is their normal. I would rather ask a doctor or someone not within this community about whether or not that activity is normal. But I feel it might not be, although to me I do similar things.
Hello,
Thank you for opening up about your experiences. It's not uncommon for people to engage in habits like nail-biting, skin picking, or chewing on various things. These behaviours can be stress-related or serve as a way to manage emotions, or even caused by boredom, though everyone's reasons can be different.
If you find that these behaviours are significantly affecting your well-being or if you'd like support in exploring coping strategies, consulting with a mental health professional, particularly one specializing in body-focused repetitive behaviours (BFRBs), can provide personalized guidance.
Remember, you're not alone in these experiences, and seeking support is a positive step towards understanding and managing these habits.
We are here for you.
Wishing you well on your journey.